Combined Pitot and Stagnation Pressure Probe for Blockage Detection

The patent combines two different pressure measurement principles (Pitot tube and stagnation point probe) into a single integrated device. The Pitot tube component provides robustness against particle blockage through its drain hole design, while the stagnation point probe component ensures accurate total pressure measurement by bringing air streams into contact to create a stagnation zone. The comparison means evaluates both measurements and selects the reliable one, resolving the contradiction between blockage resistance and measurement accuracy.

The patent changes the operational parameters by implementing a dual-measurement system that monitors both Pitot tube pressure and stagnation point pressure. The comparison means dynamically evaluates the reliability of each measurement based on particle buildup conditions, selecting the appropriate measurement source. This parameter-based selection resolves the contradiction by adapting the measurement approach based on actual operating conditions rather than being constrained by fixed drain-hole dimensions.

The patent merges two different measurement principles (Pitot tube and stagnation point probe) that have different failure modes. The Pitot tube is susceptible to blockage by small particles in its drain hole, while the stagnation point probe is susceptible to blockage by larger objects at its opening. By combining these principles and using comparison means to evaluate both measurements, the system achieves redundancy that protects against common mode failures, as it is unlikely that both different types of blockages would occur simultaneously.